Rebecca J. Hickey
Week II, Session 1
Objectives: Students will be able to:
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1) Use past experience with writing an observational poem.
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2) Quietly observe an event for 1 minute.
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3) Write an observational poem based on what they see.
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4) Include in their poem words that relate to their current mood.
Procedure and Materials: (2-3 clear glasses, a clear, carbonated liquid like Sprite, 1 box of raisins, journal, pen)
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1. Explain to students that they are going to write their first poem on their own. They will not have to read the poem unless they volunteer. This is meant to be a safe exercise.
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2. Explain the rules of the experience: For 1 minute they are to only watch what happens to the raisins in the glass. They may write anything down until time is called. Students should pay close attention to everything about the table setting, and ask them to take a moment and notice what kind of emotions their feeling right now. If they would like, emotion words can be included in the poem.
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3. Fill each glass about half way full of Sprite.
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4. Drop in 4-5 raisins.
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5. Begin timing 1 minute.
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6. At the end of 1 minute, tell students that they can begin to write their poem. There are no expectations or restrictions regarding the format that they use. Give students 15-20 minutes to write.
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7. Ask students to share what they have written. Discuss the word choices and the elements that each student included. How are the poems similar? How do they differ?